Unveiling Secrets: Rand and Moiraine’s Shocking Connection in Rhuidean!

by

In the fourth episode of The Wheel of Time’s third season, the spotlight is solely on Rand and Moiraine, accompanied by Lan, Egwene, Aviendha, and a group of Aiel people. Their journey to Rhuidean takes center stage in this particular episode. During their travels, an unexpected discovery arises for Rand and Moirane, revealing hidden similarities between them that significantly alter the course of their individual narratives and the series as a whole.

In a swift moment, Rand elects to venture into the Trial at Rhuidean, skipping over the opportunity for deliberation. Egwene yearns to accompany him, yet the Aiel’s Wise Ones forbid her entry. Entry is only granted if explicit consent is given. However, contrary to his wishes, Moiraine requests permission to join him. Her motive: to safeguard Rand, of course. Yet, a larger reason lies beneath – the Wise Ones from The Wheel of Time inadvertently revealed that she would perish if she didn’t traverse Rhuidean. They grant her permission, and together they step into the misty and perilous city. Once within its walls, Moiraine and Rand navigate their way towards its core. It is here where Rand must tread through the challenging and sorrowful lives of his ancestors.

Previously, they encountered the ancient Tree of Life from “The Wheel of Time,” approximately 3,000 years old. Moiraine informs Rand that she knew another one from her upbringing, and the Aiel had received a sapling centuries ago as a debt repayment. She discloses that her uncle, upon ascending to the throne, had the tree felled to construct his throne, seeking something “unique.” This barbarous act sparked a war with the Aiel. By breaching his oath to preserve the tree, Moiraine’s uncle ignited the conflict, ultimately leading to the Aiel abandoning the Waste in pursuit of vengeance against him. They ravaged numerous cities until they finally cornered and killed him on the slopes of Dragonmount.

RELATED ARTICLE

A Guide to THE WHEEL OF TIME’s Regions and Locations

In the story of “The Wheel of Time”, Rand understands why his mother was at Dragonmount when he was born and why this makes him the Dragon Reborn. This connection with Moiraine feels unavoidable, like destiny. He tells her she shouldn’t have gone to Rhuidean and departs towards his upcoming trial. In the glass columns, he explores the lives of many ancestors, including his own father. Through this journey, he learns that his family history is linked to the Oathbreakers and has a persistent bond with the Tree of Life. This revelation also sheds light on how the Aiel transitioned from being peace-loving to adopting a more ruthless approach.

In “The Wheel of Time,” Moiraine ventures into the Tree of Life and acquires the potent sa’angreal known as Sakarnen, a powerful artifact that only women can handle. Later on, we witness her utilizing its strength to establish the glass pillars. She then guides the group of chiefs or leaders to delve into their pasts, uncovering why they broke their oaths. At this moment, it remains uncertain what Moiraine intends to do with the Sakarnen.

Following the concealment of the radiant artifact, Moiraine subsequently navigates her way and arrives at the Three Circles of Rhuidean. Therein, she encounters numerous visions that depict her fate intertwined with Rand’s; yet, each scenario concludes with either her or Rand meeting their end. In many instances, it appears to be Lanfear who takes her life, though it might as well be the darkness within Rand. Could it possibly be him instead? It’s a possibility.

At the close of this “The Wheel of Time” installment, Rand completes his ordeal and rescues Moiraine who remains enshrouded and unconscious within the mist. Following an arduous seven-day journey, they retrace their steps to the encampment, significantly altered by their Rhuidean adventure. Now, Rand faces the challenge of earning the trust and admiration of the Aiel; this feat becomes more achievable given his demonstration of being the Car’a’carn. Meanwhile, Moiraine intends to utilize that orb to potentially curb Rand’s untamed power, not just for his sake, but also possibly to manipulate her own destiny and craft a dissimilar future as well.

Read More

2025-03-20 17:04